1979 Datsun 280 vs. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser
To start off, 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser (260 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser weights approximately 578 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser (367 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1979 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1979 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 2012 Toyota FJ Cruiser | |
| Make | Datsun | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | FJ Cruiser |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4671 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1811 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2690 mm |
